This week, I did something I never imagined I’d do: I made an appointment with a spiritual mentor.
What is a spiritual mentor? Spiritual mentors are trained in the field of spiritual direction (which my university offers a certificate in). They are not ministers, therapists, counselors, teachers, or coaches. Their role is not to change your beliefs, provide answers to spiritual questions, or lead you down a specific spiritual path. They are there to help you find your own way, your own path, your own answers. Much of their work is deep listening. They are there to be receptive, accepting, and nonjudgmental.
Why did I never think I’d see one? A lot of reasons. Because I’ve always thought I had things pretty well figured out already. Because I’m suspicious of spiritual professionals of all stripe. Because I thought they’d try to convert me to their religion. Because I thought of them as “religious,” rather than “spiritual,” and I’m definitely a “spiritual, but not religious” type. Because I’ve had mixed experiences with therapists and coaches in the past and generally think working things out on your own is best.
So, why am I going to see one now? Lately, I’ve had a number of spiritual questions nagging at me. I’ve felt a bit at sea spiritually. My meditation practice is faltering. I’m finding Zen to be less fulfilling than I once did and kind quite put my finger on why. I finally gave in and decided a little guidance couldn’t hurt.
Is this a good idea? Who knows? I’ll find out at my first appointment next week, I suppose. Wish me luck!
What is a spiritual mentor? Spiritual mentors are trained in the field of spiritual direction (which my university offers a certificate in). They are not ministers, therapists, counselors, teachers, or coaches. Their role is not to change your beliefs, provide answers to spiritual questions, or lead you down a specific spiritual path. They are there to help you find your own way, your own path, your own answers. Much of their work is deep listening. They are there to be receptive, accepting, and nonjudgmental.
Why did I never think I’d see one? A lot of reasons. Because I’ve always thought I had things pretty well figured out already. Because I’m suspicious of spiritual professionals of all stripe. Because I thought they’d try to convert me to their religion. Because I thought of them as “religious,” rather than “spiritual,” and I’m definitely a “spiritual, but not religious” type. Because I’ve had mixed experiences with therapists and coaches in the past and generally think working things out on your own is best.
So, why am I going to see one now? Lately, I’ve had a number of spiritual questions nagging at me. I’ve felt a bit at sea spiritually. My meditation practice is faltering. I’m finding Zen to be less fulfilling than I once did and kind quite put my finger on why. I finally gave in and decided a little guidance couldn’t hurt.
Is this a good idea? Who knows? I’ll find out at my first appointment next week, I suppose. Wish me luck!
Happy to hear. Please don’t take this the wrong way, but I’ve sensed this “floundering” in you through your blogs and I think this is a brave, wise choice 🙂
Hi Notomatoes!
You’re absolutely right. Although I don’t think it’s exactly “floundering,” I’ve found myself questioning a lot lately, not quite as sure of myself spiritually as I once was.
At first, I questioned whether I should bring this into my blog. I should be on top of things, right? I’m a spirituality writer, after all, so shouldn’t I be answering questions, rather than asking them?
Then I decided that it’s essential I be absolutely honest with my readers–and show myself warts and doubt and all.
I see myself as a spiritual explorer, out to take in the sacred landscape and see what I find. I hope my readers are willing to journey along with me!
Blessings,
Jill
HI Jill:
You may be a spirituality writer who answers questions, but you are also a SEEKER who must ASK questions. As far as I’m concerned, you ARE on top of things, because you’re being present with what’s up for you right now. Bravo! Bring out the doubts, which aren’t warts at all, but stunning opportunities!
Blessings,
Bella
Oh, thank you, Bella! What wonderful insights and for helping me see this for what it is. You’re right: The doubts ARE opportunities. In fact, they are gateways. I have no idea what they are gateways too. That’s what’s exciting. I can’t wait to open them and explore.
Thanks for the awesome support!
Blessings to you,
Jill